16 - PowerBook G4 (17-inch) Troubleshooting Hardware Symptom Charts
Memory error message “The built-in memory test has detected an error” appears on the screen
1. Run Apple Service Diagnostic Test. Note: If the failure is intermittent, run Apple
Service Diagnostic Test in loop mode (check looping options under Test Controls tab
and select only the RAM test under the Select Tests tab) for an extended time to test
the memory.
2. If the test can’t find the memory or finds bad memory, inspect the bad DIMM. Verify
proper memory is being used. The PowerBook G4 (17-inch) uses PC2700 (also called
DDR333) DDR SDRAM SO-DIMMs with a maximum height of 1.25-inch (30 mm). If
improper memory is being used replace it. Otherwise, try reseating the DIMM and
retest. If still reported as bad, replace it.
3. Check the memory connector for damage (retention arms broken, connectors bent or
missing, connector lifted from logic board). If damage is detected replace the logic
board.